New Parking Regulations for Motorhomes and Campervans: A Complete Guide to Avoiding Penalties
In recent years, motorhome and campervan tourism has experienced a significant boom. However, with the increasing popularity of these vehicles, parking regulations have evolved to regulate their use and minimise the impact on the environment and local communities. And although it has recently been approved that these vehicles will be considered, for parking purposes, as any other vehicle, and as you need to be cautious, here are some guidelines to follow and some useful tips to avoid penalties.

New Parking Regulations for Motorhomes and Campervans
Restricted and Permitted Areas:
- Many cities and municipalities have designated specific zones where motorhomes and campers are allowed to park. Outside these zones, parking may be restricted or prohibited.
- In urban areas, parking is often limited to certain hours of the day, and an additional fee may be required.

Duration of Parking:
- In some regions, authorities have implemented strict time limits for the parking of motorhomes. Limits of 24 or 48 hours are common.
- Staying beyond the allowed time can result in considerable fines.
Overnight regulations:
- Not all areas that allow parking allow overnight stays. Be sure to check if you can sleep in your vehicle at your chosen location.
- Some locations have set up specific overnight areas with basic services such as drinking water and grey water disposal.

Regulation of Services:
- The use of services such as sewage discharge should only take place in designated areas. Illegal dumping can lead to severe penalties.
- Many motorhome service areas require a small fee for use.
Respect the Carrying Capacity:
- Do not overload designated parking areas. Overuse can lead to degradation of the area and the imposition of new restrictions.
Tips to Avoid Sanctions
Find out before you travel
- Research local regulations in the areas you plan to visit. Local tourism websites and specialised apps can provide up-to-date information on parking regulations.
Use Specialised Applications:
- Applications such as Park4Night or Campercontact provide detailed information on parking and overnight stay areas, including specific regulations and feedback from other users.
Be Respectful and Discreet:
- Avoid practices that may annoy local residents, such as taking up more than one parking space or generating excessive noise.
- Keep your parking area clean and free of litter.
Search for Authorised Parking Areas:
- Prioritise the use of areas specifically designated for motorhomes, such as campsites and service areas. These areas usually offer the necessary services and are a safe option to avoid penalties.

Keep your documentation in order:
- Make sure you have all the necessary documents, such as vehicle insurance and parking permits if required in any area.
Consultation with the Local Police:
- If you are in doubt about where you can park, don't hesitate to ask the local authorities. They can provide you with the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Conclusion
Respecting local parking and overnight regulations is essential for a hassle-free motorhome or campervan travel experience. Stay informed, respect the environment and local communities, and use the resources available to ensure you comply with regulations. By following these tips, you will not only avoid penalties, but also contribute to the sustainability of campervan tourism. BON VOYAGE!